By Lekan Adejuwon
A group, The Yoruba Council of Leaders, also known as Leaders of Thoughts, has thrown it’s weights behind Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) representing Ekiti Central District for the post of Senate Leader of the 10th National Assembly.
The group made the disclosure at a meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State during the week to congratulate Senator Godswill Akpabio on his emergence eas the new Senate President.
Dr. Olusola Omokehinde, the President of the body, commended the President, the Chairman of the APC, and other APC leaders for recognizing the importance of equitable power distribution across the country’s geopolitical zones as a means to promote inclusive governance and democratic integration in Nigeria.
He emphasized the need for the position of the Senate Leader of the Upper Chamber to be zoned to the Southwest region, specifically endorsing the candidacy of Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele.
His words; “The Yoruba Council of Leaders believes that this position is well-deserved for the Southwest, considering that Ekiti State was the first to secure victory for the APC during the Presidential election, gaining over 70% of the total votes. Agreed the Southwest region has produced the nation’s President, it should not be deprived of other important positions.
“Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele is by “character and experience” fit for the role of Senate Leader.
“No doubt, Opeyemi is imbued with vast political experience as a former member of the House of Representatives in the 8th Assembly and a current member of the Senate in the 9th Assembly, where he chairs the Judiciary Committee with an impeccable record and strong commitment to the party’s principles and ideology. Hence, he is unhesitatingly fit for the job”.
During the meeting, other members of the Yoruba Council of Leaders, including Mrs. Akomolafe Tolani (Secretary) and Mr. Bayode Aina (PRO), joined in urging the APC leadership and the newly elected Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to consider Senator Opeyemi Bamidele for the position of Senate Leader. They highlighted Opeyemi’s status as an “omoluabi” and his collaboration with Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji in mobilizing support and delivering victory for the party’s three senators in their state, emphasizing the importance of a fair and reciprocal reward system as the foundation for party’s prosperity and it’s healthy internal affairs.
